The Five Most Fundamentally Sound Players Currently in the NBA

As of the current season, the NBA is witnessing a blending of old-school fundamentals with modern-day basketball. This amalgamation is best observed in players who don’t overly rely on flashy moves or intricate in-game adjustments but rather focus on consistent, high-quality execution. In this article, we delve into the top five most fundamentally sound players in the league today.

1. Kawhi Leonard

Kawhi Leonard is undoubtedly one of the most fundamentally sound players in the NBA. Despite his diminutive stature, Leonard has a keen understanding of the game, making him a masterful distributor and defender. His absence from the game is felt more than many realize because he doesn't force shots but instead integrates his strengths seamlessly into his team's overall strategy. Leonard's midrange shooting alone makes him invaluable, and his unwavering defense, particularly on the perimeter, is as intimidating as it is effective.

2. Chris Paul

Chris Paul is an absolute master of the pass-first point guard. From Dr. Naismith himself, the father of basketball, to modern-day players, CP3's consistent excellence in distribution and overall playmaking cannot be overstated. His ability to read the game at an advanced level and anticipate his teammates' moves ahead of time makes him a force on the floor. Paul's knack for finding the open man in fast-breaking possessions, coupled with his experience and tactical acumen, is reason enough to place him among the most fundamentally sound players in the NBA.

3. Klay Thompson

Klay Thompson exemplifies what it means to have solid shooting fundamentals. Despite his prolific works with the Golden State Warriors, Walker-led teams, and now the Los Angeles Lakers, Thompson remains known for his exceptional off-ball catch-and-shoot game. His ability to plant his feet and deliver the perfect shot with precision, without much dribbling, is a testament to his fundamental shooting skills. Thompson's name often comes up in discussions of the deadliest shooters in basketball, and this reputation is built on his consistent execution of fundamental shooting principles.

4. DeMar DeRozan

DeMar DeRozan is a master of footwork and a real threat from the midrange. His ability to manipulate his defender through complex footwork allows him to find open shots even in tight spaces. Additionally, his midrange game is incredibly deadly, making him a tough player to defend. While many players rely on extensive dribbling and driving to find their shot, DeRozan’s proficiency in the midrange showcases his solid fundamentals and exceptional skill. He is currently one of the NBA's most consistent performers, and his ability to score in the middle third of the court is a critical asset for his team.

5. Luka Don?i? (Wildcard)

Luka Don?i?, although not explicitly mentioned in the original prompt, is often in contention for such a list. The Slovenian star has exhibited exceptional playmaking ability, leadership, and skill all through his career. His comprehensive understanding of the game, from ball handling to defense, makes him a versatile and reliable player. While still improving, Don?i?'s foundation in basketball fundamentals is already one of the best in today's NBA, making him a strong wildcard pick for this list.

Looking forward, the evolution of the fundamentals in today's NBA is best observed in these players. Their consistent performance and adherence to sound basketball principles make them stand out in a league where flash over substance is too often the norm. For fans and players alike, these are the true definitions of fundamentally sound, and they will be pivotal in the ongoing narrative of modern basketball.

Keywords: Kawhi Leonard, Chris Paul, Klay Thompson, Luka Don?i?, DeMar DeRozan